Finland crowned the World’s Happiest Country for 8 years in a row! Helsinki leads as the World’s Most Sustainable Travel Destination, while the renovated Finlandia Hall and 10 new places to stay showcase Finnish innovation.
Credits: Mikko Huotari
Finland crowned the World’s Happiest Country for the 8th consecutive year
Finland has been named the happiest country in the world by the annual United Nations World Happiness Report, holding the top title since 2018. Fresh insights from the World Happiness Report 2025 highlight the importance of social connections as well as sharing and caring. While many speculate about Finland’s secret to happiness, one key factor stands out: the sauna. While sauna is not the sole contributor to Finns’ continuous happiness, it is one of the most essential and unifying factors, with 90% of Finns bathing in a sauna at least once a week.
Finland offers a wide array of unique accommodations that highlight the country’s stunning natural beauty, both in their design and locations. We've put together a list of the most exciting new spots where you can fully immerse yourself in Finnish nature and discover true tranquility.
NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa Hotel is in the heart of Helsinki. The hotel itself is located within two historic buildings that stand as a testament to Helsinki's architectural and cultural heritage. The hotel offers 224 rooms and an extensive range of conference and event facilities, including a stunning grand ballroom.
Clarion Hotel Helsinki Airport features a modern conference centre for 800 guests, and 21 meeting rooms in total. Guests can look forward to great à la carte dining at Brasserie NÒR on the top floor with panoramic views of the runway. It is the ideal venue for events and overnight stays right next to the airport terminal.
Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4 offers a sustainable alternative to traditional luxury. The hotel's wooden architecture, maritime surroundings, and serene ambiance of the hotel rooms combine to form a unique whole. The building's rooftop features a stunning terrace with breathtaking 360-degree views of the sea. All 164 rooms are equipped with high-quality materials and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Helsinki named world’s most sustainable travel destination
Helsinki has achieved its target of being the world’s most sustainable destination. The Finnish capital was ranked number one in the latest Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index, which was published in October 2024. The Global Destination Sustainability Index measures the sustainability of travel destinations in four different categories using more than 70 indicators. The comparison includes more than a hundred cities throughout the world that have invested in sustainability. Helsinki has performed well in the GDS Index in the past: in 2023, the city's ranking was fourth.
Finlandia Hall reopened its doors after a 3-year renovation
One of Finland's most significant and versatile event venues, Finlandia Hall, designed by Alvar Aalto, opened after a long wait on January 4, 2025. The building was under renovation since the beginning of 2022. For the first time in its history, the renovated Finlandia Hall is open not only to congress and event visitors but also to all city residents and travellers in Helsinki. The Finlandia Hall, Piazza, and other familiar magnificent event spaces and their furniture have been restored to their former glory, and they have been joined by a showroom specifically serving launch events or pop-up exhibitions. Finlandia Hall is centrally located in the heart of Helsinki by the Töölönlahti Bay, within walking distance from various hotels. The venue offers more than 40 unique conference and event spaces ranging from 20 to 1700 seats.
Helsinki Airport selected again as the best airport in Europe in its size category
Passengers have selected Helsinki Airport as the best airport in Europe in terms of customer experience in the 15–25 million passenger size category. The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award given to the Finnish airport company Finavia is based on an annual international survey involving 400 airports in 95 countries. The award is given annually by Airports Council International (ACI), the international umbrella organisation for airports.
A diverse range of association meetings and congresses are confirmed to take place in Finnish cities throughout 2025. World-class research and infrastructure are driving international congresses to Finland. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, cutting-edge infrastructure, and warm hospitality, Finland offers an exceptional setting for impactful meetings and conferences. Furthermore, the country's strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability resonates deeply with associations seeking to make a positive global contribution. The 2025 congress calendar showcases a vibrant array of events. Explore a curated list of upcoming meetings and congresses here.
Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre (Messukeskus), EAN 2024
Credits: Messukeskus
Meet us in IMEX Frankfurt
Visit the Finland stand F250 at IMEX Frankfurt (May 20-22, 2025) and update your information on this Nordic country that is both a winter wonderland and a serene summer haven – and the happiest country in the world. Finland presents a unique blend for event planners: the thrill of untouched nature alongside modern conference centers and event venues. From the serene beauty of its lakes and forests to the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Northern Lights, Finland offers spectacular and sustainable settings for any event. On our stand you can explore the opportunities of some of the most popular destinations, conference venues, hotels and DMC’s in Finland.
